The Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs emphasized the importance of ensuring that the digital space is filled with content that is beneficial for society, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The ministry expressed concerns that allowing detrimental content to exist in the digital space could have a negative impact on these businesses. It was mentioned that Temu, a company that had attempted to register to operate in Indonesia, had faced challenges in obtaining trademark rights due to a similar business already using the name.
Despite facing registration issues, Temu participated in the 2024 E-commerce Expo in Greater Jakarta, sparking discussions about the company’s presence in the region. The article also highlighted Temu’s expansion into Southeast Asia, starting with the Philippines and Malaysia in the previous year and later entering Thailand. This expansion reflects the company’s efforts to establish a presence in various markets, including Indonesia.
In addition to Temu, the article mentioned Indonesia’s ban on TikTok Shop in October of the previous year, citing the need to protect smaller merchants and user data. However, TikTok Shop re-entered the market by acquiring a majority stake in Indonesian e-commerce player Tokopedia in January. This move indicates the changing dynamics of the digital space and the involvement of major players in the e-commerce sector.
The Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs reiterated its commitment to supporting businesses that contribute to the productivity and profitability of society, while taking a firm stance against content that could be detrimental. The ministry’s focus on safeguarding the interests of micro, small, and medium enterprises underscores the importance of creating a conducive environment for these businesses to thrive in the digital economy.
Overall, the article highlights the challenges and opportunities facing businesses operating in the digital space, particularly in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. It underscores the importance of regulatory measures to protect the interests of smaller merchants while also recognizing the role of major players in shaping the e-commerce landscape. The evolving nature of the digital economy requires businesses to adapt to changing dynamics and navigate the complexities of operating in a competitive market.
